The Reserves

Thuma and Dedza-Salima Forest Reserves are primarily protected to preserve their important water catchment function. 

The region receives an annual rainfall of over 1,100 mm during the period of December to April and the many streams that originate in the two reserves are extremely important for the region. The water collected in these streams flow into several main rivers which eventually lead into Lake Malawi, providing a source of clean water for the surrounding people and wildlife along the way. 

A number of the features which make the reserves so unique rely heavily on this precious water being available throughout the year. Botanical research shows an interesting species diversity within the reserves with recordings of 58 orchid species and over 168 tree species, including significant numbers of Marula trees (Sclerocarya birrea) which bear fruit that has a strong attractive power on the resident elephants. 

The reserves’ importance for animals is signified by regular unexpected discoveries; caracal and honey badger were first recorded only in August 2013. The rolling hills and dense vegetation mean some species can also go undetected for long periods of time, with eland being thought absent from the area for 24 years before reappearing in 2018.

Thuma and Dedza-Salima Forest Reserves are two of the few protected areas in Malawi which are still home to a large diversity of animals. Over 32 larger mammal species have been recorded here, including elephants. The elephant population within the two reserves is very significant for Malawi as it makes up approximately 10% of the country’s total population. Our biennial mammal surveys, along with our other ongoing monitoring efforts, strongly indicate a significant increase in wildlife populations, including species such as elephants, buffalo and kudu. This increase is a direct result of intensified protected area management and law enforcement, and shows the incredible potential of the two reserves.